HOUSTON -The Coalition for Space Exploration (Coalition) is pleased to announce that Caleb Ekeroth is the grand prize winner of its "What's Next?" in space exploration contest. Ekeroth's video titled, "Visit Mars Today," takes viewers through a timeline of human spaceflight history into the future with an in-flight commentary of the first tourist trip to the red planet. Ekeroth's video effectively demonstrates his idea that interplanetary travel is within our reach. The entry was selected as the winner for its thought-provoking message to build upon the successful history of the space program and explore beyond low-Earth orbit.

Ekeroth receives an iPad2 for his winning entry. His video will be featured on the Coalition website, shared through social media networks, and provided to NASA and elected leaders in Washington, DC.

In addition to the grand prize, two runner-ups were chosen: Daniel Land and Sthanley Joseph. Land won for "Accept the Risks", a video that supports the beginning of a new era of space exploration to Mars. Joseph shows his strong enthusiasm and passion for public access to space travel with his "What's Next?" video. Land and Joseph will receive prize packs for their efforts and their videos will also be featured and shared alongside the winner.

"The Coalition thanks all who participated in this contest and values the strong entries submitted by people across the country," said Coalition Chairman Glenn Mahone. "Clearly, there is continued interest in the future of space exploration. From travelling back to the moon, on to Mars and beyond, there is also tremendous passion for a variety of destinations and plans."

Entrants were encouraged to share their vision for the future of space exploration, keeping in mind a few key facts:

- We are poised to utilize our tremendous experience and expertise gained from a successful Space Shuttle Program.

- The International Space Station is breaking through technological and research barriers, making extraordinary science available to the general public.

- The space industry is burgeoning with forward-thinking entrepreneurs who are about to change the way we access and travel to space.

The Coalition for Space Exploration is a group of space industry businesses and advocacy groups that collaborates to ensure that the United States remains the leader in space, science and technology by reinforcing the value and benefits of space exploration with the public and our nation's leaders, and building lasting support for a long-term, sustainable strategic direction for space exploration.